Enhanced Emission in Polyelectrolyte Assemblies for the Development of Artificial Light‐Harvesting Systems and Color‐Tunable LED Device

Abstract

Artificial light‐harvesting systems (LHSs) are of growing interest for their potential in energy capture and conversion, but achieving efficient fluorescence in aqueous environments remains challenging. In this study, a novel tetraphenylethylene (TPE) derivative, TPEN, is synthesized and co‐assembled with poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS) to enhance its fluorescence via electrostatic interactions. The resulting PSS⊃TPEN network significantly increased blue emission, which is further harnessed by an energy‐matched dye, 4,7‐di(2‐thienyl)benzo[2,1,3]thiadiazole (DBT), to produce an efficient LHS with yellow emission. Moreover, this system is successfully applied to develop color‐tunable light‐emitting diode (LED) devices. The findings demonstrate a cost‐effective and environmentally friendly approach to designing tunable luminescent materials, with promising potential for future advancements in energy‐efficient lighting technologies.